There's something undeniably comforting about a homemade chocolate cake. Whether it's for a birthday, a celebration, or just a dessert treat, a rich, moist chocolate cake always hits the spot. In this article, you'll learn how to prepare this classic dessert from scratch, ensuring every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness.
Ingredients
To whip up a sumptuous chocolate cake, you'll need the following ingredients:
- For the cake:
- 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
- For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup (80ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring two 9-inch round cake pans will ensure your cake comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes. Once combined, carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfectly normal.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the milk. Mix well and add the vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency if necessary by adding more milk or powdered sugar.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Final Touches
For added decoration, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries.
Enjoy!
Slice up your beautiful chocolate cake, serve it to family and friends, and watch their faces light up with delight. Nothing beats the satisfaction of a homemade treat made with love. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This chocolate cake recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels. Remember, the key to a perfect cake lies in not just the ingredients but also the care and attention you put into making it. Happy baking!